‘Houdini’ controversy: Eminem name-dropping Megan Thee Stallion sparks outrage

WEB DESK: The latest track by Eminem, “Houdini”, ignited intense contention by fans and others online for mentioning singe Megan Thee Stallion’s shooting incident in the song’s lyrics.

The Slim Shady faced immediate criticism not only from commentators but also surprisingly from his fans. In the song, Eminem raps, “If I were to ask for Megan Thee Stallion if she would collab with me, [w]ould I really have a shot at a feat?” The lyric directly alludes to the 2020 incident where Megan was shot in the feet.

Read more: Eminem asks Republican to stop rapping his lyrics

The reference sparked intense backlash on social media, with fans condemning Eminem for his insensitivity.

Many have pointed to this as yet another incident of men exploiting traumatic events that women endure. Many have condemned his lyrics as “distasteful” and “disgusting,” among other criticisms.

Echoing the sentiment of “Leave Britney Alone” movement, many users advised Eminem to leave Megan alone as well.

Besides Megan Thee Stallion, Eminem’s latest and already infamous single also took jibes at or name-dropped other celebrities, including famous drag queen RuPaul, kidnapping hoaxer Sherri Papini, and convicted sexual abuser R Kelly.

In Houdini, Eminem also referenced his children with ex-wife Kim Scott, calling them “brats”. The epithet further divided the famous rapper’s fans with many finding it extremely distasteful. It further drew criticism given Eminem’s attendance at his second eldest child Hailey’s recent wedding.

Eminem’s latest musical offering was highly anticipated by most of his fans and rap enthusiasts alike. The Slim Shady certainly knew how to turn heads and trend, even on Google, with “Houdini”.

Read more: JLo takes break amid marriage woes rumours with Ben Affleck

The track is part of his upcoming album ‘The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce)’, set to be released in the middle of this year.